It goes both ways.
How many of you knew the Mountain West had a network?
http://aol.sportingnews.com/ncaa-fo...annel-shutting-down-may-31-cbs-sports-network
They were a good network. But, being on their own, it was a constant struggle to get into cable packages. Thus, no viewership. Thus, no money. Thus, shut down.
For those who watch on other avenues (i.e. other collegiate streams), I will guarantee the first place people go is ESPN3, then cstv.com, then the conference websites.
For me, given the success of ESPN3 and WatchESPN (and don't forget to factor in the next-gen video game systems, where I know ESPN3 is already available on Xbox), it is better to reach a partnership with them then go out on your own. Anyone think the Longhorn Network would still be around without ESPN?
ESPN is truly the Evil Empire.